Ava DuVernay, award-winning director and activist, is one of the most influential figures in contemporary cinema. She is particularly known for her exceptional work on When They See Usthe poignant series about the Central Park Five affair, but also for its films that address social and political issues with a unique perspective.
On the sidelines of the 21st edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM), she granted Hespress FR an interview where she looks back on her journey, her struggles and her future projects.
You are known for integrating your political activism into your films and series. How do you balance creativity and activism in an environment like Hollywood?
Yes, I think I express myself through my films. I feel the need to say what is in my heart. For me, it’s not about activism per se, it’s just about telling stories. Activism is often linked to justice and dignity, themes that particularly interest me. I am first and foremost a storyteller, and I don’t think about activism when I create a work. I say to myself instead: “This is the story I have to tell, this is my responsibility, and I’m going to do it to the best of my ability.” »
As a Black woman in Hollywood, how do you manage to stay grounded while celebrating your accomplishments and stay motivated for what’s to come?
Oh, I don’t really celebrate my accomplishments. For me, the best celebration is having the opportunity to create something new. My greatest accomplishment is being able to continue to work, to produce. In the field of cinema, it is often very difficult to raise the funds and obtain the resources necessary to create new works. I never take this for granted. My happiness does not lie in the rewards, but on the set, when I create.
How do you manage the balance with the studios, especially given the commercial nature of Hollywood? Do you have difficulty getting your stories accepted?
Yes, there are challenges. But there are also more welcoming spaces in this demanding industry. You have to know how to identify places where you can tell the stories you want to share, instead of constantly knocking on doors that don’t open. Sometimes a door opens, or a person inside may be interested. Otherwise, we must find other means. For example, Origin was produced outside of the studio system. The main thing is to remain open and look for places where you are welcomed.
As an advocate for women and people of color in Hollywood, what advice would you give to Moroccan filmmakers who want to break into the global cinema scene and make an impact?
I think that to move forward in any field, it is essential to create a community and remember that you are not alone. You need to surround yourself with like-minded people. This makes the process faster and more joyful than tackling everything alone. For my part, I was surrounded by a group of beginning filmmakers, and we supported each other. We were present on each other’s shoots. Even without having attended a film school, and with little means, I had this support and this camaraderie. It led me to international connections, film festivals and new voices. This is what I recommend.
Well, this is not your first time in Marrakech, I imagine?
Yes, it’s my first time in Marrakech, both in North Africa and Morocco. I’ve explored other parts of the continent, but I’ve never been here. The festival program was quite busy, but I had the opportunity to discover a few places in the city. I like to do varied things. I visited the medina, enjoyed delicious meals, but I also like to go to the places where people actually live. I loved walking around this vibrant city. I’m from Los Angeles, and I wish our streets had this much energy. It reminds me a bit of the energy of New York, where the city surrounds you as soon as you step out onto the street. It’s different, of course, but the spirit is the same. I love this place.
